Barnsley complain to FA and EFL as Joey Barton investigated for tunnel fracas

A statement from Barnsley confirms it has “lodged a formal complaint to both the English Football League and the Football Association,” following an alleged incident between manager Daniel Stendel and Fleetwood boss Joey Barton.

An altercation between the managers is said to have occurred in the tunnel following a 4-2 home win for the Reds at Oakwell. According to reports, former Newcastle midfielder Barton confronted Stendel and had to be separated by stewards in the melee ensuing the final whistle.

The Tyke’s talisman Cauley Woodrow, who scored in their 4-2 victory on Saturday, posted a tweet suggesting his manager was left with “Blood pouring from his face” and had been “physically assaulted” by Barton. The tweet was subsequently deleted.

Barnsley have stated that they are “currently working with the police and assisting with all enquiries regarding the incident. No further comment will be issued whilst police investigations are ongoing.”

A South Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “We are aware of something that has taken place in the tunnel after the game and we are investigating.”

“No arrests have been made at this time and enquiries remain ongoing,” the statement added.

Fleetwood Town have also commented, saying they had “been made aware of an alleged incident” and were “currently establishing the facts”.

This is Barton’s first season in management, he took the reins at Highbury the day after his 18-month ban for betting was lifted last summer.

This article was brought to you by The Football League Paper. On-sale every Sunday, the newspaper provides extensive coverage for all 72 Football League clubs with news, features and gossip plus comprehensive match reports. To subscribe to The Football League Paper CLICK HERE